Jaisalmer, the Golden city, known for its sand dunes, Sonar Quila and amazingly beautiful havelis is a most sought after travel destination not just for Indian tourists but foreigners, too. People have seen, spoken and written a lot about the Patvon(पटवों) kee haveli. Let us also know about Saalim Singh(सालिम सिंह) ji ki  haveli near Jaisalmer fort.  

The most remarkable part about this haveli is the strikingly beautiful set of balconies that leave you awestruck. It is said that this haveli was built on the remains of an old haveli of the late 17^th century. Saalim singh Ji ki haveli was built in 1815 and occupied by the Mehta family of Jaisalmer. Saalim Singh was the then Prime Minister of Jaisalmer.

The roof is a jaw dropping sight as it has been designed in the form of a peacock. The haveli with its distinct architecture has two elephants guarding the gate which are in sandstone appearing almost real.

There is also a story about this haveli that I had heard long back on my visit when I was a kid. As per the story, Saalim Singh had made extra floors on the haveli to make it look as high as the fort. But this was not taken in good spirit by the Maharaja of Jaisalmer and he gave orders to demolish those two floors.

The haveli has balconies numbering 38 and they are very very beautifully carved stones. It is also said that no mortar or cement was used, instead all stones were connected with iron rods.